hypnosis

noun

hyp·no·sis | \ hip-ˈnō-səs

plural hypnoses\ hip-ˈnō-ˌsēz

Definition of hypnosis

1 : a trancelike state that resembles sleep but is induced by a person whose suggestions are readily accepted by the subject

2 : any of various conditions that resemble sleep

3 : hypnotism sense 1

Synonyms Example Sentences Learn More about hypnosis

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Examples of hypnosis in a Sentence

He underwent hypnosis to treat his fear of water. While under hypnosis, she described the horrific accident in detail.

Recent Examples on the Web

Harden reaches a similar result by way of hypnosis: bouncing the ball back and forth, lunging and receding. — Rob Mahoney, SI.com, "Why the Pairing of Russell Westbrook and James Harden Won’t Be a Simple Fit," 12 July 2019 Experts say hypnosis is best used in tandem with traditional treatments, or when those methods have been exhausted and failed to provide relief. — Cotton Codinha, Allure, "Can Hypnotherapy Actually Help Treat Pain and Anxiety?," 21 June 2019 That doesn’t mean that hypnosis should be performed in a vacuum. — Cotton Codinha, Allure, "Can Hypnotherapy Actually Help Treat Pain and Anxiety?," 21 June 2019 The problem with that theory is that hypnosis does not exist, either. — Kevin D. Williamson, National Review, "There’s No Such Thing as ‘Brainwashing’," 16 June 2019 His technique remains the basis of the modern practice of therapeutic hypnosis. — National Geographic, "Was this hypnotic health craze an elaborate hoax or a medical breakthrough?," 5 Mar. 2019 Several priests used hypnosis during counseling sessions to manipulate their victims. — Mark Scolforo, Fox News, "Prosecutor: Priests 'weaponized' the faith to abuse kids," 16 Aug. 2018 For two hours, Lleyton Hewitt moved from side to side along the worn baseline today, producing the same sleepy effect of a watch swinging a patient into hypnosis. — Christopher Clarey, New York Times, "In Tennis, the Backward Cap Makes No Sense. Nevertheless, It Persists.," 19 Jan. 2018 People respond to hypnosis to varying degrees and different ways, but most people for whom the procedure works experience a sense of calm and relaxation. — Carolyn L. Todd, SELF, "Keira Knightley Used Hypnosis to Help Deal With Stress Early in Her Career," 5 Oct. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'hypnosis.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.